Parents, Are You Prepared for the Worst?

Every moment counts when a child goes missing, so the faster you can have up-to-date information available to the authorities, the better. One way to ensure relevant information is all in one place is to have an identification kit for each child in your family.   Here's what to include in that kit: Child's Personal Information Include their full name and nicknames, birth date, height, weight, eye color, hair color, medical information, blood type, allergies. Your Personal Information Be sure to include your full name and the names of all parents and guardians, along with phone numbers and addresses. Physical Description In as much detail as possible, add descriptions of all identifying marks on your child, like scars and birthmarks. Include their locations on an illustrated human silhouette. You may consider adding a photograph of the marking. DNA and Fingerprints Within the kit include hair samples. Be aware, a cutting of hair will not provide DNA. The sample needs to have several strands of hair with the root and follicle intact, which can often be found on their hairbrush. Include all 10 fingers from both hands in the fingerprint sample. Current Photograph Be sure to include clear, printed photographs of your child. Ensure that your child is clearly visible, that their features are easy to see. Regularly update this kit as your child grows with new photos and personal details like height and weight. Here are some resources: National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: Child ID Child Safe Kit National Child Identification Program: The ID Kit FBI: How to Protect Your Kids with ID Kits Your Flooring Consultant For Life,        Matt Capell        President of Capell Flooring and Interiors